Borscht Belt, or Jewish Alps, is a colloquial term for the (now mostly defunct) summer resorts of the Catskill Mountains in parts of Sullivan, Orange and Ulster counties in upstate New York. Borscht, a soup associated with immigrants from eastern Europe, was a euphemistic way of saying "Jewish". These resorts were a popular vacation spot for New York City Jews between the 1920s and the 1970s.[1] Beginning in the 1980s the growth of air travel made the Catskills less attractive. Most Borscht Belt resorts hosted traveling Jewish comedians and musicians, and many who later became famous began their careers there.
The new "Borscht Belt" exhibit by the Sullivan County Historical Society is opening at the Sullivan County Museum in Hurleyville on Sunday, July 3rd, 2 PM. A gala program is planned with Speaker, Sullivan County Historian John Conway and Song Stylist Patti Greco.
Patti was born and raised in Sullivan County. Her performances have consistently brought rave reviews:
"powerhouse performer" , "Greco is incredible", (River Reporter, May 2015), "Enchanting stage presence and incredible vocal range delighted the audience" (SC Democrat, May 2015). Patti will be performing music from the “Golden Age” of the resort era.
John Conway was born and grew up in Monticello, NY. He has been the Sullivan County Historian since 1993. John has written 4 books on local history, as well as many newspaper columns, given frequent local talks (including including teaching of history at Sullivan County Community College). John has a passion for local history and shares that so well in an entertaining way with his audience.
Thanks to Patti and John for being part of the opening event at the Museum.
And thank you to "Arts for Sullivan", administered by DVAA, for a grant to help with this program.
Light refreshment will be served.
Admission is free – Donations are always accepted
For information: 845-434-8044
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